No funds, Shivdham tourism project stuck for 2 years

The ambitious Shivdham tourism project in Mandi district, which was expected to provide a major boost to the region’s tourism industry, has been stalled for the past two years due to lack of adequate funding.

Initially conceived as a landmark project during the tenure of former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, the project was envisioned to be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 250 crore.

Despite the promise of substantial investments, construction work has come to a halt, leaving local residents and tourism stakeholders waiting for its completion.

The Shivdham project, proposed to be constructed at Kangnidhar in Mandi, was designed to promote religious tourism in the region, offering an attractive destination for both pilgrims and tourists.

The plan involved creating world-class infrastructure, including temples, spiritual centres and recreational facilities, with the goal of boosting the tourism economy in Mandi, a region known for its picturesque landscapes and religious significance.

The BJP-led government under Jai Ram Thakur initiated the project, allocating an initial sum of Rs 40 crore to kick-start the construction. The project saw initial progress with construction work beginning at the designated site. However, just before the 2022 Assembly elections, the project was abruptly halted, reportedly due to a shortage of funds. Work on the ambitious venture has remained suspended ever since.

This sudden stop has left the residents of Mandi district frustrated as they were hopeful that the project would not only attract pilgrims but also generate significant employment opportunities and promote the local economy.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who assumed office in December 2022, has expressed his commitment to completing the Shivdham project. Sukhu announced a fresh allocation of Rs 100 crore for the construction of Shivdham.

His announcement was met with optimism in the district as many hoped that the new government would prioritise the completion of the project. However, despite the announcement of funds, there has been no visible progress on the construction site.

The delay in the project’s construction has raised concerns among the residents, particularly those in the tourism sector. Mandi, which is already a popular destination for travellers due to its scenic beauty and religious sites, could significantly benefit from the Shivdham project.

Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops, were expecting a surge in tourism once the project was completed, especially as the region is home to several important religious landmarks that attract thousands of pilgrims each year.

OP Kapoor, president of Citizens’ Council Mandi stated that Shivdham project holds great potential to further enhance Mandi’s reputation as a hub for religious tourism. The district, which has long been known for its temples and spiritual significance, could see an influx of pilgrims and tourists if the infrastructure is developed as envisioned.

However, without the timely resumption of construction, the project risks losing its momentum and the anticipated economic benefits for the local community might remain unrealised, he said.

Kapoor said that Kangnidhar, where this project is proposed, was once known as an oxygen cylinder of Mandi town because of forest vegetation in the area. It was destroyed for this ambitious project. Now, the state government must focus to accomplish this project in a time-bound manner.

Local leaders have called on the state government to give priority to the project and address the funding shortfalls that have delayed its progress. Former minister and BJP MLA from Mandi Sadar Anil Sharma stated that he raised this issue in the Vidhan Sabha recently and the Chief Minister assured to accomplish this project. For this, provision in the budget has been made by the state government.

Meanwhile, residents of Mandi wait in hope that the project would be revived soon, bringing with it a new chapter of growth and prosperity for the district’s tourism industry.

With the state government’s promise of Rs 100 crore, the next few months will be crucial in determining whether Shivdham will emerge as a landmark destination or remain an unfinished dream for Mandi’s tourism sector.

Himachal Tribune